The March of Time

Michael sat alone in the dark, staring up at the flickering light in front of him. In bright, vivid color, he could see cheering in the streets as the newsreel announcer intoned that the dictator of an African country whose name he couldn't make out was announcing the disbanding of his country's militia. A large black man, in full military regalia, stood behind a podium, a great smile on his face exposing his slightly yellowed teeth.

(voice of interpreter)This is a glorious day for our great nation. After years of unremitting hostility, I am proud to say that the time for war has ended. I look forward to our people being at the forefront of a new spirit of welcoming and openness as we enter this grand new era.

The scene changed, and Michael watched as a barricade was torn down by poorly-dressed soldiers. A sea of people rushed into the previously forbidden area, chanting, waving flags, and dancing, while others rushed to the military installation itself and begin tearing the walls down.

The scene changed again, and a barrage of images flew in front of Michael's transfixed gaze. Two men, apparently from opposing factions, shaking hands and then embracing. A small child running towards her father and being picked up in his strong arms. Ammunition being dumped into the ocean. The images began flashing by so fast that Michael couldn't follow them. But as the newsreel ended, Michael suddenly found the theatre packed to capacity, the crowd cheering and rising to its feet with thunderous applause, and he couldn't help but smile and join in the accolades.